A video that was shared on social media shows the moment a United States of America Marine Corps fighter jet crashing into the ground after colliding with an aerial refueling tanker.
The incident happened in California.
According to reports, the pilot of the F-35B jet managed to eject before the fighter jet crashed on the ground and was treated after the collision.
The plane collided with a KC-130J during air-to-air refueling maneuvers in a military operations area located in Imperial County at around 4 pm on Tuesday.
The Marine Corps released a statement about the incident, where they said:
The KC-130J is on deck in the vicinity of Thermal Airport. All crew members of the KC-130J have been reported safe.
A recording of the air traffic control communications was shared with the public after the incident.
LiveATC.net shared the recording.
In the recording the pilot of the tanker said:
LA Center, LA Center, Raider 50 declaring an emergency, midair collision with Volt 93. We have two engines out, we’re leaking fuel, and likely on fire, and in emergency descent at this time.
The video that was shared with the public shows a single-engine F-35B stealth fighter slamming into the ground.
A ball of fire could be seen erupting from the incident.
A thick black plume of black smoke was also emitted after the explosion.